Jesper Lindstrom has completed a loan move to Everton, despite previously expressing his allegiance to their Merseyside rivals, Liverpool.
The attacking midfielder, who joined Napoli just last summer, was targeted by Sean Dyche as he sought to strengthen his forward options for the upcoming Premier League season.
However, Lindstrom's past affinity for Liverpool is no secret, and he claims he turned down a chance to join the Reds last summer.
In a September 2023 interview with Danish newspaper Tipsbladet, Lindstrom disclosed that he had been approached by Jurgen Klopp's side but declined due to concerns over playing time.
The Dane, 24, said: "It was Liverpool and I am a Liverpool supporter, so it would've been a madly fascinating experience, but would it have been an intelligent move? "
He added: "If I don't play, then I may as well sit in front of the TV and watch them play there while I am at a different club. I am at an age now where I have to play football.
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"This is why I think Napoli represent a good change. It is one of the best clubs in the world and they said I will have many opportunities to play."
Despite his admiration for Liverpool, Lindstrom is delighted to join the Reds' city rivals at Goodison Park. After sealing the deal, which includes an option for Everton to make the move permanent next summer, he said: "I feel very good.
"It's amazing to represent Everton. This is a big club, with big history, a good stadium and, as I've seen, very good facilities as well. I'm very, very happy to be here and I feel like this is a good fit.
"I actually heard of Everton's interest a while ago not only from now but previously. England is very similar to Denmark so I will feel at home quickly. The people have been very nice and very humble. I'm really looking forward to getting started."
"I've spoken to the manager. It sounds as though he likes the way I play football and I can be a good fit for the team with my speed, so now I want to deliver.
"I know he trusts me and that's another reason I'm here – because I need that trust from the coach and I need trust from my team-mates. I'm ready to show them I can help. I am 100 per cent ready.
"I'm so hungry. This pre-season feels long because I just want to play football, I just want to be out there in the stadium. Last year was a tough year for me but I'm so happy to be here now and I can't wait to get started."
